Dental Implants

Dental implants are jawbone inserts that mimic tooth root and support a crown to replace a missing tooth.

These have significant advantages in replacing missing teeth compared to a bridge or dentures. They can be used to replace single or multiple missing teeth. Implants can be used to support fixed teeth or improve retention of dentures using specialized attachments.

They can withstand high pressures from chewing and are comparable to natural teeth in this regard
They prevent bone loss and gum recession in the surrounding area. This can also reduce the chances of adjacent teeth becoming loose
Hollowing or collapsing of cheeks and face is avoided as the bone support is maintained
They feel more like natural teeth and also do not need special care when compared to a denture or bridge

A dental implant is designed to last many years. Some of the factors that can affect its longevity are poor oral hygiene, health conditions such as diabetes, cancer, medications and grinding habits. Regular check-ups and hygiene appointments are essential to the long-term success of dental implants. Just like any other dental appliance dental implants and associated prosthesis are subject to wear and tear and may need repairs.

The are a lot of factors that affect your eligibility to have dental implant surgery

Age – Children under 17 still have growing bones while some seniors maybe be too fragile for implant surgery
Inadequate Bone – In some cases it may not be possible to use bone replacement techniques to build enough bone for implants
Smoking – it affects healing after any surgery and continued smoking can even cause failure of a fully healed implant
Medical Conditions – Some diseases like uncontrolled Diabetes can affect healing or cause infections after surgery. Medications that interfere with healing may also exclude some people from having implant surgery.

We will require the following tests prior to confirming your suitability for implants

Full examination including x-rays
Dental impressions or scans
CT Scan
Certain medical conditions may require additional tests

These tests also help in planning for the type and number of implants required in each situation

As in any oral surgery there are the usual risks which include post-operative pain, bleeding, dry socket, infection, sinus problems, numbness/altered sensation, damage to adjacent teeth and thinning of jawbone.

Risks and complications specific to implant treatment include but are not limited to affected sinus, damaged nerve, ingestion or inhalation instruments or parts, local or general infection, loose implant or crown and speech problems.

Post-Surgery instructions

Do

Rest following surgery. You will be advised if you need to take time off
Drink lots of fluids
Eat soft foods that are not hot or warm
Start gentle warm saltwater rinses every 4-6hours after 24 hours

Do Not

Drive or operate any machinery if you have been sedated
Rinse or rinse too frequently in the first 24 hours
Consume alcohol for 3 days
Disturb the wound by brushing or eating in the area
Smoke for 2 weeks

Dental Implants

Dental implants are jawbone inserts that mimic tooth root and support a crown to replace a missing tooth.

Post-Surgery instructions

Do

Do Not

Replacing All Your Teeth: Know Your Options

Single Tooth Replacement: Know Your Options

Dental Implants After Previous Tooth Extraction

Immediate Tooth Replacement With Dental Implants

Mini Dental Implants

Consequences of Missing Teeth

Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants

Dental Implants 101 – High-Tech Teeth

Dental Implant FAQs

How to Choose An Implant Dentist